Crossword Genius

Second of the occupants dropped off rent (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cleft

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'rent' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for cleft that I've seen before include "Split into two" , "Narrow opening" , "Split, divided" , "Space" , "Split or indentation" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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